Chelsea appoint stop-gap for Kenyon

Chelsea today confirmed that Peter Kenyon's arrival as chief executive has been delayed by appointing Paul Smith as a consultant to the board of directors.

Standard Sport revealed last week that Kenyon was unlikely to assume his position before the transfer window closes on 31 January next year, and this appointment suggests he will remain on gardening leave for the foreseeable future.

Chelsea are still hopeful of securing Kenyon's servicesas soon as possible but have recruited Smith to assume his responsibilities. The 51-year-old boasts an impressive track record with sports agencies ISL and IMG, having represented FIFA and UEFA in the commercial management and staging of several World Cups and European Championships.

Smith also advised the Premier League on its original marketing and media strategy and handled the introduction of sponsorship for the FA Cup and Team England on behalf of the Football Association.

A Chelsea statement said: "Mr Smith will provide an interface between the board and company management on operational issues until Peter Kenyon is able to assume his position as chief executive officer."

Although Smith has been recruited as a stop-gap there is a suggestion that he could stay on and work alongside Kenyon.

Chelsea director Richard Creitzman said: "Paul's a strong manager and we are hoping he will help develop the Chelsea brand. We want to make Chelsea one of the biggest clubs in Europe on and off the pitch."

Meanwhile, Ryan Giggs today warned Chelsea they will struggle to gel as a team this season.

The Manchester United winger said: "You don't know what you are going to get with Chelsea. They have so much quality but they have all got to gel, whereas Arsenal and ourselves have got the nucleus of teams we have had for the last few years."